When I was 4 years old I saw a cobra edging out from behind a wooden strawberry barrel in our garden. Naturally I was certain of what I had seen, despite the fact that I was not even on the same continent as any known, free roaming, cobra.more

Long before country singer Brad Paisley made checking for ticks an act of seduction, many of us grew up with a much more imminent threat to our outdoor adventures—a threat that was far less obvious and identifiable until it was too late.more

Every December 31st, while millions of Americans from Maine to California resolve to lose the last few pinches of pudge, Southerners have already gotten a jump (or, rather, a hoppin’ john) on the rest of the country.more

For years, I refused to draft a bucket list. A few months ago, however, my perception was forever changed while attending a conference where speakers discussed local festival development in Western North Carolina.more

Superstition and innovation—the delicate dance between the two just about sums up our region in a nutshell. Actually, make that two nutshells: that of the buckeye, and also the boiled peanut, a soft and salty snack.more

As with most things good and holy—Velveeta cheese, Dunkin’ Donuts coffee—dream catchers tend to churn my stomach when overconsumed. Don’t get me wrong: I love the message behind them, that we can filter good dreams from bad.more

I admit to suffering from unjustified anxiety regarding the growing number of blue bottle trees peppered along dirt roads and adorning eclectic yards of West Asheville. One gust of wind, and someone will be mowing glass shards!more

With two curious boys (ages five and 16 months) I can plan to spend at least one day of my life, every year, wrapped in a down comforter, huddled in the fetal position on my bed, lights off, sweat-dampened hair pulled into a messy mop.more